Amid the social tumult of the mid-1960s, a small group of courageous and caring citizens made the bold statement of declaring what they believed. Those beliefs — that every person in the City of Jackson should be treated with dignity, respect and kindness regardless of their station in life — were unpopular in some circles and put some of the members of this group in physical danger. Their vision inspired the early work of Operation Shoestring, and their courage and tenacity continue to inspire us today.

We are proud to build on the legacy of leaders who have helped shape a better tomorrow for children and families in Jackson. And it is with great humility and hope that we set forth this statement of intention and belief for Operation Shoestring’s Board of Directors and Staff.

In 2018, the swift-moving tide of change seems to move more rapidly than at any time in the 50 years our organization has existed. Events hurriedly pile themselves upon events, and everywhere we turn fast-breaking changes require quick answers and quick actions.

We are threatened with a widening chasm between people in our nation, state, city and metro area. Yet, we remain convinced there is a vast reservoir of good will, compassion and kindness. That kindness is inherent to Mississippians and is genuinely a part of our being. This reservoir of true neighborly feeling and friendship must be brought to the fore now and without delay.

We must be more than spectators of events. We must act firmly and decisively to become active participants in the declaration of our own destiny.

Accordingly, every citizen of our city and the central Jackson Community that Operation Shoestring has served for five decades desires harmony, good order, a decent and honorable family life, and a chance to better themselves economically. Therefore, we, the undersigned Board Members and Staff of this organization, declare we believe in the following principles, and we pledge ourselves to do everything within our power to see that they are carried out:

We believe in the essential worth and dignity of every human being.

Fair and impartial treatment must be accorded to all citizens in the provision of high-quality educational opportunities and healthcare, access to rewarding employment opportunities, and the availability of adequate and affordable housing in safe and vibrant communities.

Every child should have access to adequate and properly staffed community, arts and recreational facilities, which should be effectively equipped to the end that all our people may obtain the maximum benefits from them.

Communications between fellow citizens should be encouraged on every level of our City regardless of socioeconomic station or geographic location. This should include all of us whether we be public officials or civic, business, religious or professional leaders.

There is no place in the life of our city for hate, discord or violence. All of our citizens should work untiringly and unceasingly to bring out the fullest and the best in us in the way of kindness, compassion, friendliness, and understanding that we may all progress through cooperation.

Operation Shoestring provides year-round academic, social and emotional support children and youth, Pre-K through 12th grade, while supporting and providing resources to their families. Through afterschool/summer programs and parent-engagement opportunities, Shoestring empowers the children and families we serve to create their own success, and that of their community, so we can all rise together. www.operationshoestring.org